By:
Submission
Ok, but not great at all. The hike is more like 11 miles in and out- the hot spring trail doesn’t start until you pass the private property areas about a mile in. Take plenty of snacks and water (I live at 7,000’ and am acclimated to the dry altitude, so don’t take that lightly). It’s a beautiful- unfortunately, fire scarred- hike, but just make sure you’re prepared. The hot springs are a little difficult to find- go to exactly where the Google Maps pin is, then head straight for the river (which, is a little steep to get to). The spring itself was a bit disappointing. Murky, dirty water and small. Only enough room for a handful of people to get in at a time. And, the river is ice cold! Overall, ok- it was nice to visit a remote hot spring, but is not likely a place I’ll return to.
Follow up on another review- we went on 5/May 23, 2022, and there were only about 15-20 downed trees on the trail and they were all near the end. They weren’t much trouble to pass.
Long hike, 10 to 11 round trip. Moderate to hard due to length. 1000+ elevation gain. Do not go without rain gear or proper backcountry clothing/gear. Trail is clear and easy to follow, burn area so is exposed so take water or a filter.
Hidden gem! The hot springs felt wonderful after hiking half of the five miles in rain and hail without jackets, and spending a cold 45 degree night without enough dry blankets! Next time we’ll know better!! Would do it again, just not through a thunderstorm!
Worth the 12 mile, ~1000 ft. climb round trip! We thought hot springs themselves are sort of forgettable, and like many natural hot springs a little gross with algae and silt, but after hiking the 6 miles out (We couldn't figure out why some state it's as little as 4), you'll really appreciate the relaxing break! The star of this experience is the hike. Super scenic and varied. The contrast of destruction from the 2013 fire and the new life is beautiful and the hike has so much variety to it. At the very least pack a lunch to enjoy before the return hike, or for the more experienced and ambitious- stay overnight!
Not a bad hike but be sure to bring enough water. From the Rainbow / West Fork trailhead it is about 5.2 miles each way.
The path to the hot spring can be found between various l Camp 6 and Camp 7. The water is a little over a foot deep, and about 100°F -- perfect for relaxing in for hours 😌
If you're really still, you might have some visitors. I had a chipmunk jump onto my exposed knee; and then had a pair of marmots visit 😄 No issues with annoying bugs.
